What is Paan Thandai ?
Paan is made from betal leaves, and it is a very popular mouth freshener, often enjoyed after a heavy meal. It is a symbol of hospitality and there are several Paan shops in India who are known for their skills in making a perfect paan. You will find one paan shop in almost every other lane. Thandai is a very popular Holi drink which you prepare with nuts, aromatic spices, rose petal and milk. RECIPE LINK for Homemade Thandai Powder and Homemade Thandai Drink You prepare Paan Thandai by adding fresh betal leaves and gulkand. Gulkand is made from preserved rose petals which is used in filling sweetened pan (mitha pan)
How to make Paan Thandai ?
In a blender add fresh betel leaves, thandai powder, gulkand, milk and sugar. Blend it. You can choose to strain, add ice as per your liking. I always feel that Thandai taste better after letting it rest in the fridge for a while for the flavors to enhance further. So make a big batch and store in the refrigerator. You can use Paan in several kinds of Indian desserts, and it gives a very refreshing flavor to it. This is actually my first time using paan in beverage, and we loved it. This Holi Festival Betel Leaves drink is easy to make, and you can make in advance. It’s a perfect drink for summer parties.
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Where to find Paan?
Here in US, I see paan only in Indian stores. I haven’t seen it in any other store. Remember to store paan in a ziplock in the fridge, as it can dry out and lose its freshness if kept outside.
Adjust as per your liking
You can adjust the sweetness of the drink based on your taste bud. I added less betel leaves and that’s why didn’t get the vibrant green color. I liked the measurement I used, as it wasn’t too overpowering but still had a lovely refreshing taste and flavor to it.
Can you use Non Dairy Milk
Yes, you absolutely can use Non dairy milk too.
Here are few more Thandai recipe you can try:
Yogurt Panna Cotta with Thandai Thandai Custard Thandai Holi Rainbow Cake We often associate Thandai typically with Holi Frestival, however you can enjoy this drink all summer long. A great coolant to enjoy on a warm day.
